Mark Pope and Kentucky basketball took a swing at Donovan Dent, but the former New Mexico star chose UCLA instead. Now, the Wildcats must shift their focus elsewhere as they continue to build their backcourt for next season. Fortunately, there are still plenty of intriguing options in the transfer portal. Here are five guards Kentucky should target to solidify their roster.
1. Nick Boyd (San Diego State)
Lamont Butler was a home-run addition from San Diego State, so why not dip into that well again? Nick Boyd is a defensive-minded point guard who has steadily improved each season. While he isn’t an elite three-point shooter, San Diego State’s slow-paced system limits offensive output. Given the freedom of Pope’s system, he could thrive in Lexington.
2024-25 Stats:
Boyd has one year of eligibility left and could be a key veteran presence in the backcourt.
PPG: 15.6
APG: 4.7
RPG: 2.0
FG%: 41.3
3P%: 35.3
FT%: 72.1
2. Dedan Thomas (UNLV)
One of the most polished guards in the portal, Thomas possesses a smooth game and excellent court vision. He isn’t an elite three-point shooter yet, but his feel for the game and defensive instincts make him an attractive target. He also has two years of eligibility remaining, giving Pope a longer-term piece to build around.
2024-25 Stats:
PPG: 15.6
APG: 4.7
RPG: 2.0
FG%: 41.3
3P%: 35.3
FT%: 72.1
3. Silas Demary Jr. (Georgia)
Demary is a defensive-first, pass-first guard who fits the mold of what Pope values in his backcourt. He has steadily improved as a shooter and could develop into a two-way force. He also brings experience from playing in the SEC, which is always a plus.
PPG: 13.5
APG: 3.1
RPG: 3.9
FG%: 39.6
3P%: 37.4
FT%: 80.4
With two years of eligibility remaining, Demary could be a multi-year piece in Lexington.
4. Ja'Borri McGhee (UAB)
McGhee is the best shooter on this list and a name that should intrigue Kentucky fans. While he’s still developing as a playmaker, his ability to stretch the floor makes him a strong fit in Pope’s system. Plus, as a freshman, he has three years of eligibility remaining, giving Pope plenty of time to develop his game.
PPG: 11.1
APG: 2.8
RPG: 2.7
FG%: 51.7
3P%: 40.8
FT%: 68.6
5. Jalen Jackson (Purdue Fort Wayne)
Jackson is an all-around offensive threat who took a step back from deep last season but has previously been a 40% three-point shooter. If he can rediscover that form, his scoring, rebounding, and passing would make him a perfect fit at Kentucky.
PPG: 19.2
APG: 3.1
RPG: 4.4
FG%: 48.4
3P%: 26.4
FT%: 75.1
Jackson has two years of eligibility remaining, giving Pope another strong backcourt option.
Final Thoughts
While missing out on Dent stings, Kentucky still has plenty of quality options in the portal. With Pope’s track record of maximizing guard play, any of these five could step in and help the Wildcats make another deep run in March. Now, it’s up to the coaching staff to make their move. And if Braden Smith decides to leave Purdue he immediately becomes the number 1 option. Keep an eye out here for all the latest transfer portal news.